The National Assembly has taken a decisive step to improve oversight of public land transactions by approving an amendment requiring gazette publication before any registration of public land.

The change comes after lawmakers adopted a Senate amendment to the Land (Amendment) Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 40 of 2022), aiming to close gaps that have allowed irregular land allocations in the past.

Sponsored by Ruiru MP Simon King’ara, the bill first passed the National Assembly on March 20, 2024, before moving to the Senate for further scrutiny.

The amendment now mandates that the land registrar “publish a notice in the Gazette specifying the particulars of the registration” in all cases involving public land under the proposed sub-section (16).

The National Assembly’s approval ensures the bill can now be sent to President William Ruto for assent. Parliament emphasized that the requirement will serve as a permanent public record, giving citizens the ability to follow land deals and participate in oversight.

"The amendment reduces the risk of fraudulent transactions, promotes informed public participation, and provides a permanent, accessible record of land registrations," Parliament stated.

The need for such measures is highlighted by recent recoveries of illegally acquired land. On August 1, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission reclaimed public land valued at Sh104 million in Mombasa, originally belonging to the Kenya Airports Authority.

The parcel had been unlawfully acquired by a former Coast Province Physical Planner. In another case, land attached to Kenya Railways was recovered years after being improperly allocated to private entities.

Lawmakers say the amendment will strengthen transparency, protect public resources, and ensure that all future public land transactions are open to scrutiny.

By requiring gazette publication, the government aims to prevent disputes, reduce corruption, and provide citizens with clear information about land ownership changes.